Graduate workers at the University of Iowa (UI) are intensifying their campaign for fair pay and living wages.
The Campaign to Organize Graduate Students (COGS) has organized a rally scheduled for January 29, 2025, at noon, starting on the Pentacrest lawn and proceeding to Jesup Hall.
Their primary demand is for the UI administration and the Iowa Board of Regents to implement wage increases that align with the rising cost of living.
Background of the Wage Dispute
In 2023, COGS advocated for a 10% wage increase for graduate workers. However, the university approved only a 3% raise, which COGS argues is insufficient given the current inflation rates and escalating living expenses. This modest increase has left many graduate workers struggling to meet basic needs.
Comparative Analysis of Graduate Worker Stipends
A comparison of stipends within the Big Ten Conference highlights the disparities:
| University | Minimum Annual Stipend | Year Implemented |
|---|---|---|
| Purdue University | $26,000 | 2023 |
| University of Iowa | $21,969 | 2023 |
Note: The figures above are based on a 50% appointment during the academic year.
COGS’ Recent Advocacy Efforts
COGS has been proactive in highlighting the financial challenges faced by graduate workers:
- September 2023 Protest: Approximately 75 demonstrators disrupted a Board of Regents meeting, demanding a 25% wage increase to address the rising living costs in Johnson County. The protest led to the adjournment of the meeting before public comments could be heard.
- June 2024 Demonstration: COGS members protested at a Board of Regents meeting at the Levitt Center, advocating for the elimination of student fees.
Financial Strain on Graduate Workers
The financial challenges for UI graduate workers are significant:
- Annual Stipend: The average annual pay is $21,969 for a 50% appointment during the academic year.
- Rent Burden: Over 90% of graduate workers are rent-burdened, with many allocating half of their paycheck to housing.
- Comparison to Living Wage: The current base pay is barely above the poverty threshold for a single adult without children and falls well below the living wage in Johnson County.
COGS’ Letter to UI Administration
In a recent letter addressed to UI President Barbara Wilson, COGS emphasized the indispensable role of graduate workers across various departments.
The letter urged the administration to advocate for measures that would alleviate financial burdens, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of graduate workers and making UI a more attractive choice for prospective students.
The ongoing efforts by COGS underscore the critical need for the University of Iowa and the Iowa Board of Regents to address the financial challenges faced by graduate workers.
Implementing fair pay and ensuring living wages are essential steps toward recognizing the invaluable contributions of these individuals to the university’s mission of teaching and research.
